Skating isn’t just about gliding on ice. Sometimes, all you need is a good set of wheels under your feet. With a pair of roller skates, you don’t have to wait until winter just to skate your heart out.
The problem, however, is you need to control the wheels perfectly. Ice skates and roller skates are very similar, but the wheels can make or break your performance as a skater.
Today’s your lucky day because we’re here to discuss how to roller skate like a pro. We will explain the basics carefully so you’ll have an easier training.
A Comprehensive Guide on How to Roller Skate
Now that we’re finally in this section, get ready to learn how to roller skate starting from the fundamentals up to the more complex techniques.
As a plus, we’re also going to share some tips about safe roller skating for children so you can teach kids in the future.
How to Learn to Roller Skate
With so many techniques to discuss, where should we start? The key here is to observe proper gliding first.
Don’t worry; the technique is simple enough. Just use one foot to push yourself, and glide using the other. Do the whole thing repeatedly.
But, as a first-time roller skater, you have to wait until the glide gets slower before you use the other foot for gliding. This will help you learn continuous movement without hurting yourself.
In addition, always lift your other foot even in the slightest manner when you glide. You don’t want to abruptly stop yourself from gliding. That may lead to an accident.
Once you get the hang of gliding, try to make a turn and move faster. Remember these tips to reduce the risk of hurting yourself:
- Don’t forget to squat when you lean your upper body to make a turn.
- Lean to the same direction you’re going.
- Lean further and apply more pressure on your glides when you want to go faster.
- Move your arms as if you’re running when you glide faster to maintain balance.
How to Roller Skate for Beginners
If you never tried any form of skating before, let’s take your training down a notch. Your main focus should be posture. Take note of the following tips if you have no idea how to roller skate:
- Keep your feet apart (the gap should be as wide as your shoulder’s width).
- Always bend your knees.
- Your buttocks should be closer to the ground while your body leans forward a little bit to achieve a proper squat.
- Before walking with your roller skates, your heels should be closer together to keep your toes pointing outward (this stance is for easier movement of your feet).
How to Stop on Roller Skates
This is a crucial lesson, so pay more attention. You need more guidance on using the brake at the right skate’s toe to ensure safety.
Before we go over the details, remember to stop with confidence. Hesitating will only affect your balance.
Without further ado, here are the steps:
- Control your feet until they’re in a parallel position.
- Maintain a proper squat.
- Move your right foot a little bit forward.
- Lift your right toe.
- Press your toe against the ground with force.
How to Roller Skate Backwards
Skating backward is difficult for first-timers, but you’ll nail it with constant practice. Just put your toes closer and your heels wider apart to achieve the inverted “V” position.
Then, without leaning back, glide the opposite direction by putting pressure on your right skate’s toe while lifting the left skate. The same idea goes for the other side.
How to Teach a Kid to Roller Skate
It goes without saying that the child must follow the same set of techniques you learned. However, the difference is you should allow the kid to hold your hand while practicing how to roller skate.
Once you notice improvement, be more confident in letting the child skate independently no matter the mistakes. A little fall here and there is totally all right as long as the kid is wearing the right safety gear.
Conclusion
You can only improve as a beginner if you observe proper posture at all times and practice basic techniques to perfection. However, wearing the best roller skates can make a difference, too. Your feet won’t get tired easily, and the wheels will have a smoother glide.
References:
https://www.wikihow.com/Roller-Skate
https://skateworld1.com/tips-for-teaching-your-child-how-to-roller-skate/